ABERDEEN, S.D. — As the South Dakota Freedom Scholarship program celebrates 300 graduates statewide this spring, Northern State University is proud to share its own milestone — more than $1.4 million in scholarships has been disbursed to NSU students since the program launched in fall 2022.

Since its inception, 287 NSU students have received Freedom Scholarship funding. During the 2025-26 academic year alone, 99 students at Northern received funds through the program.

The South Dakota Freedom Scholarship is the largest public-private, need-based scholarship in state history, made possible through $50 million from the South Dakota Legislature and $150 million from First PREMIER Bank and PREMIER Bankcard, along with contributions from Avera Health and Sanford Health System. The scholarship supports first-generation college students and students with financial need who commit to living and working in South Dakota for at least three years after graduation.

"The Freedom Scholarship has made a real difference for NSU students who might otherwise have faced significant financial barriers to earning their degree," said Becky Pribyl, director of financial aid at Northern State University. "Seeing 287 students receive more than $1.4 million in support since 2022 is a testament to what is possible when the state, private partners and universities work together to invest in students and in South Dakota's future."

"Receiving the Freedom Scholarship eased financial stress and allowed me to become more involved in my education and future career goals," said Ella Cozad, a spring 2026 graduate in elementary and special education. "I'm so thankful for the support that helped make my experience at Northern so meaningful. I feel honored to be from South Dakota and excited to now join the workforce here as a future educator."

To be eligible, students must be South Dakota residents, demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA, maintain a 2.0 GPA, pursue a bachelor's degree at an eligible institution and commit in writing to living and working in South Dakota for at least three years after graduation.

For more information about the South Dakota Freedom Scholarship, visit freedomscholarshipsd.com.